Meet the
Ghosts of Bellgrade
Whispers of Bellgrade: The Haunted Charm of Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Midlothian
Step into a world where fine dining meets rich history and playful paranormal intrigue at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Midlothian, Virginia. Nestled in the historic Bellgrade Manor House, our restaurant offers more than just a delectable menu—it provides a dining experience steeped in tales of love, betrayal, and restless spirits.
A Journey Through Time
Our story begins with Edward Cox, the earliest known owner, who sold the house and its 515 acres to Edward O. Friend in 1824 for a mere $5,000. Friend, along with his wife Matilda, called Bellgrade home until his passing in 1838. After Friend’s death, Matilda remarried and sold the property to Anthony T. Robiou in 1840.
The Infamous Robiou
Anthony T. Robiou is a name that resonates through Chesterfield County history—not just for his ownership of the Bellgrade farm, but for the dramatic and scandalous events that led to his untimely demise. Caught in a whirlwind of infidelity, Robiou’s young wife, Emily (just 14 years old when she married Robiou), was found in a compromising position with John Reid. Enraged and betrayed, Robiou’s quest for justice ended violently when he was ambushed and killed by Emily’s father and Reid himself.
The subsequent trial of John S. Wormley, Emily’s father, captivated the entire county. After a mistrial and a retrial, Wormley was sentenced to death and hanged before a crowd of 4,000 people. Reid, however, was acquitted and soon married the widowed Emily. But the tale doesn’t end there.
William Hogarth
The Haunting of Bellgrade
Shortly after her father’s execution, Emily Reid met her own tragic fate, tumbling down the stairs and reportedly landing on a sewing basket, a pair of scissors piercing her heart (other reports say her neck was broken). Since then, visitors and staff alike have reported eerie sightings of both Robiou and Emily wandering the lush boxwood gardens of Bellgrade. Some say you can hear whispers on the wind, recounting the dramatic events of their lives and untimely deaths.
A Dining Experience Like No Other
Today, Ruth’s Chris Steak House proudly embraces the rich, if slightly spooky, history of Bellgrade. As you savor each bite of our perfectly prepared steaks, you might just feel a cool breeze or catch a glimpse of a spectral figure out of the corner of your eye. Whether you’re a believer in ghosts or a lover of history, our unique blend of fine dining and fascinating folklore ensures an unforgettable visit.
Come for the food, stay for the stories, and maybe—just maybe—experience a ghostly encounter of your own at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Midlothian.